Continuing his hot streak of releases this year, Kendrick Lamar’s sixth studio album GNX surprises fans. Released on Nov. 22, Lamar’s latest is an unapologetically blunt and funky record that shows roots from the West Coast with its fly and groovy beats that are sure to make the audience bust a move.
A well-respected figure in the world of hip hop, Kendrick Lamar isn’t a stranger to receiving a mouthful from his haters. Having had “beef” earlier this year with Canadian rapper Drake, Lamar doesn’t hold back on this record wanting the “smoke” from everyone. The record explores themes of legacy, power, respect, and influence with an unfiltered tone; a complete shift from his previous album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers.
With Lamar’s status as one of the greatest in the scene, his impact as an artist is immensely profound, being the West Coast’s golden boy. The Pulitzer and Grammy award-winning artist never comes up short portraying the vision he has to his audience, empowering the ones who truly understand his message. Continuing to keep the spirit of true West Coast music alive, Lamar sure is a man for his culture.
Westside renaissance
Opening the album, the track wacced out murals showcases a powerful metaphor of Lamar’s murals that are scattered throughout Los Angeles, it symbolizes his legacy, impact, and identity that is deeply rooted in Compton. The act of someone “whacking out his mural” represents the erasure or disrespect of his contributions, showcasing the two sides of recognition: admiration and hostility. Lamar delivers an ominous message to those who threaten his peace: “I’ll kill ’em all before I let ’em kill my joy.” It’s a message that stays true to the album’s direct and unapologetic approach, stating Lamar’s protection of his peace and artistry.
Reflecting both the competitive nature of hip-hop and the playful spirit of dance, squabble up serves as a powerful declaration of resilience, self-assurance, and dominance. It features a dynamic production that combines elements of retro synths, heavy percussion, and a bouncing 80’s beach-vibe beat, creating a chaotic yet engaging soundscape. Many listeners interpret the song as a direct response to Kendrick's ongoing rivalry with Drake as the title itself is a slang term in Los Angeles that implies readiness to fight. Some have pointed out that certain lines may serve as veiled jabs at Drake, particularly in the context of their past interactions.
Deep-rooted rhythms
Sentiments of love and support echo in luther as it centers around the desire to create an ideal world for a partner. Featuring Grammy-winning R&B artist SZA, the track blends Kendrick Lamar's introspective lyricism with a mellow, romantic soundscape, inviting listeners into a space of vulnerability and connection. The song's title may also reference Luther Vandross, an American soul artist most known for his song Dance with my Father, furthering the theme of love as a transformative force.
In man in the garden, Lamar opens up about his self-worth, with the repeating line “I deserve it all,” being threaded throughout the song. His insistence on this worthiness stems from the fruits of his labor, “More money, more power, more freedom, everything heaven allowed us.” With the sacrifices he’s made and everything he’s been through, Lamar suggests his wealth and success are a form of divine blessing, portraying his success as justified rather than rooted from greed and entitlement.
Lamar lives three lives in reincarnated, a record that puts him in the shoes of revolutionary R&B guitarist John Lee Hooker and Chitlin Circuit singer Billie Holiday—two artists he felt connected to artistically and personally. He delved into their struggles with fame, addiction, and systematic oppression, aligning their legacies with his own artistry and carving his own path, breaking the cycle of their self-destruction.
Opening with the assertive line, “Tell ‘em Kendrick did it,” gnx establishes Lamar's commanding presence in the rap game. The track is a declaration of his influence, innovation, and his role in revitalizing West Coast hip-hop. Legacy is a theme central to gnx, with the line “On the dead guys, I ain’t goin,” signifying a commitment to street loyalty and the consequences that come with it. Fellow rappers Young Threat, Peysoh and HittaJ3 contribute to this narrative, each adding their unique perspectives and reinforcing the themes of power and survival that permeate the track.
Lamar continues to cement his status as one of the greatest rappers of his generation with the release of GNX. Unabashedly blunt and unapologetically funky, the album showcases his ability to effortlessly blend west coat influences with trademark lyrical prowess. Whether calling out his rivals or uplifting his community, Lamar’s unwavering artistic vision and cultural significance shine through every track in GNX.
Supplementary recommendations:
heart pt.6 - Combining nostalgic production with introspective lyrics, the track showcases Lamar’s growth as an artist and his commitment to authentic communication.
tv off - A song that critiques passive consumption and conformity, it reflects an individual's rise above mediocrity, avoiding the toxic influences of life and remaining focused on their purpose and encourages listeners to “Turn the TV off.”
Cruise through the West Coast's hip hop scene with Kendrick Lamar's GNX, available on all streaming platforms.
